Sonoma County residents are now required to wear face coverings when they go out in public with some exceptions, and more Bay Area counties are expected to follow suit.
"What we're asking for is masking in an indoor facility - except our homes - and any enclosed space, and in an outdoor space where you're in a close distance with folks," says County Supervisor Susan Gorin.
Masks are not required when you are outdoors in an area with few people around, or in your home.
Sonoma County has had relatively few cases compared to its Bay Area neighbors. As of Thursday the county had reported 172 cases and two deaths.
"The reason is that we're doing a good job and we're holding ourselves accountable," says Sonoma County Sheriff's Sgt. Juan Valencia. While the order does allow for sheriff's deputies to enforce the order and ticket violators, deputies will start by educating people about the new rules.
Officials hope to achieve voluntary compliance without having to hand out tickets, as they did with shelter in place orders. But that will require residents to get on board.
"That's the only way we're going to be able to slow the spread or stop it from maybe infecting our family member," says Sgt. Valencia.
The county was first in the region to issue a mask order but other municipalities have already followed. The city of Fremont issued an executive order Thursday requiring employees and customers at essential businesses to cover their faces. Workers are also required to wash or sanitize their hands every 30 minutes. That order went into effect immediately.
Marin County has also issued an order requiring anyone over the age of six to cover their face in a public setting. That order goes into effect on Wednesday at noon.
Other Bay Area counties are expected to issue similar orders Friday.
